HELO School

Volunteering at our schools is truly a remarkable experience for anyone who wants to make a positive impact on the lives of local children. It’s a great way to give back to the community and an opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of Siem Reap and the surrounding countryside on a tuk-tuk. By living with locals, you’ll also get a chance to experience authentic Cambodian village life.

We offer many experiences for our volunteers. To start, you can teach English in morning, afternoon, or evening classes, engage in artsy activities, read books, play games, sing or dance with children, and bring joy and inspiration to their lives by simply showing up and being yourself. Moreover, our cultural exchange program immerses you in Cambodia’s rich culture and history. You can take a private tour of the beautiful Angkor Wat or join other volunteers on a village tour to meet the locals and witness the changes as we continue to provide education and community services in Speankaek and Phum O villages.

So that you know, there is no cost to volunteer here. As NGOs that provide free education to students in our villages and beyond, we rely on the support of our volunteers and the public to continue our work.

However, to support the continued success of our community, we ask for a small donation fee of $8 per day (per person) for those who choose to stay with us at our homestays. This fee includes three meals plus water, coffee, and tea. We highly recommend our homestay options for those seeking an immersive Cambodian cultural experience while volunteering at our schools. This option is an excellent way to take your volunteering experience to the next level and maximize your time in Siem Reap.

Additionally, you’ll have the pleasure of waking up to breakfast each morning and indulging in family-style lunches and dinners while learning the Khmer language and delving into authentic Cambodian village life.

About the Founder - Sophara's journey toward his passion for education is an inspiring tale of dedication and hard work. During his early adulthood, he devoted his time to practicing as a monk at the historic Bakong Pagoda, where he was fortunate enough to receive an education and learn the English language. Through sheer perseverance and determination, he overcame the many challenges that came his way and eventually fulfilled his lifelong dream in 2013 of establishing a school for his community to allow underprivileged children to learn and develop their English language skills, just like he did. The heartfelt support of his dear friends from Australia only added to the beauty of his journey, making it a truly remarkable one.

Top Host
This host receives a lot of worldpackers and has a high average rating.

Reviews

5.0
(23 reviews)23

Staff & Host

5.0

Hours & Tasks

5.0

Hostel

5.0

Learning & Fun

5.0

United States

5

My experience at Helo School was absolutely incredible. From the moment I arrived, I felt like part of a big family and community. The kids and the village welcomed me with open arms, and I truly felt immersed in Khmer culture. During my two weeks here, I became so close with the other volunteers and teachers, making the goodbye incredibly hard and emotional. This has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and I cannot recommend it enough. Sophara is doing something truly amazing for his community, and I feel so grateful to have been a small part of it.

13 days ago

United Kingdom

5

We absolutely loved our time at Helo school! The children were so lovely and keen to learn and the teachers were very kind and genuine. They ask you lots of questions about your life and make you feel very welcomed. Sophara and Dalin were great hosts; we had yummy meals and the room was great, had everything we needed.
This experience really allows you to explore the community and get to know the village in a way that most can’t. The main city is also only 20 minute tuktuk so you have lots of opportunities to explore in your free timewould recommend this to everyone i thought it was amazing!

about 2 months ago

Portugal

5

I had the most wonderful time at HELO School. The teachers treat you like a member of the team and a friend, and genuinely interested in a knowledge exchange — which is super important since you are not teaching alone, but alongside them. The children are the sweetest, they made me feel so welcomed and loved ❤️ Sophara and Dalin, the hosts, were amazing and always made sure I was comfortable (thank you so much for the delicious food, Dalin!). I cannot say enough good thing about this project.
All of this made the experience my favourite volunteer project ever!

3 months ago

United Kingdom

4

I volunteered at LLCCA school for 2 weeks. The Cambodian teachers at the school were all so nice and friendly. Volunteers job is to help to assist their lessons, helping with pronunciation/ marking work ect. All the children were so sweet and excited to learn it was so fun!! Sarath was nice and the food provided was good :)The school is very rural and there are no shops/ things to do walking distance so make sure you bring essentials you need! At the weekend I’d recommended staying in Siem Reap for more to do. The accommodation was fine but it was very hot when I was there with just a fan.

4 months ago

Brazil

5

My experience at HELO School was truly transformative. Getting to know the entire community, living in the village, and learning about the local culture while spending time with the children was incredibly meaningful. The children have a good level of English and are remarkably polite and kind. The teachers are not only outstanding professionals but also wonderful people.
Living with the host family was also an unforgettable experience—everything is thoughtfully arranged to make you feel at home (and the food is absolutely delicious).

4 months ago


Perfect for you if you're looking for

Contact with nature

Rural

Contact with animals

Spiritual

Family